Established in 2004, the Certified PP designation is an attainable goal for paralegals who wish to be identified as exceptional in all areas of law. Attaining this goal demonstrates dedication to professionalism and acceptance of the challenge to be exceptional.  Personal motivation is necessary to attain such a goal.

Successful completion of the PP^® examination demonstrates:

               A mastery of procedural skills and communication skills

               An advanced knowledge of procedural law, the law library, and the preparation of legal documents

               A working knowledge of substantive law and the ability to perform specifically delegated substantive legal work under an attorney’s supervision

               The ability to interact on a professional level with attorneys, clients and other staff

               The discipline to assume responsibility and exercise initiative and judgment while adhering to legal ethical standards at all times

NALS of West Michigan offers a study group to help prepare you for this examination.  It thoroughly reviews all four parts (Written Communications; Legal Knowledge and Skills; Ethics and Judgment Skills; and Substantive Law) with the assistance of attorneys, Certified PLSs, or individuals with expertise in a particular area.

Members may attend free of charge.  Non-members are asked to pay $15 per section.  Each student is responsible for their own text books.  Check with your Human Resource Director for you office’s policy on reimbursement.

For more information, please review the Eligibility Page, the Study Materials Page and the

PP 2007-2008 Study Group Schedule, or contact the current Certification Committee Chair.

A 10/27/04 message from NALS

To provide the highest quality certifications, NALS and the Certifying Board are constantly monitoring the certification examinations and their processes to make sure that they meet the needs of both the examinees and the industry.

To comply with industry standards, the Professional Paralegal examination process has incorporated an employer statement(s) in the application process. This statement will verify that the minimum experience requirement for the performance of paralegal duties is met. This change will take effect immediately, but will not affect those applications already in process, such as those already received or applicants in retake status.

Please note:  due to this change there will no longer be an online application, so pay particular attention to application deadlines to allow time to mail/fax your application.

If you have any questions please contact Tammy Shatwell Mullins at shatwell@nals.org.